Personal injury claims involve seeking compensation for injuries sustained as a result of the negligent actions of another party. When filing a personal injury claim, one of the most critical decisions you will make is hiring a lawyer. Personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. The amount they receive as a percentage of your settlement or verdict varies depending on several factors.

Factors Affecting the Percentage Lawyers Take for Personal Injury Claims

The complexity of your case is one factor that can affect the percentage lawyers take for personal injury claims. More complicated cases may require more time and resources, which can result in higher legal fees. For example, a medical malpractice case may require the assistance of medical experts to prove negligence on the part of the medical professional. 

The strength of your case is another factor that can affect the percentage lawyers take for personal injury claims. Stronger cases are typically settled quickly, resulting in lower legal fees. Conversely, weaker cases may require more time and effort to negotiate a favorable settlement or win at trial, resulting in higher legal fees. If the other party is offering a low settlement amount, a lawyer may need to invest more time and resources to negotiate a higher amount, resulting in higher legal fees.

The location of your case can also affect the percentage lawyers take for personal injury claims. Different states have different rules regarding contingency fees. In some states, lawyers are allowed to take a higher percentage of the settlement or verdict than in others.

Understanding Contingency Fees for Personal Injury Claims

When trying to find a personal injury lawyer for a personal injury claim, it is essential to understand how contingency fees work. A contingency fee is a fee that is paid to the lawyer only if they win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount, and it is agreed upon before the lawyer begins working on your case. If the lawyer does not win your case, they do not receive any fee.

Contingency fees vary depending on the complexity of the case, the strength of the case, the amount of damages sought, and the location of the case. Typically, contingency fees range from 33% to 40% of the settlement or verdict amount. However, some lawyers may charge a lower percentage for weaker cases or cases with lower damages. Conversely, some lawyers may charge a higher percentage for more complicated cases or cases with higher damages.

It is also essential to understand that contingency fees are negotiable. If you feel that the percentage your lawyer is proposing is too high, you can try to negotiate a lower percentage. However, keep in mind that lawyers are more likely to negotiate their fees for strong cases or cases with high damages.